[GNC] New User - 1st Question

[Adrien Monteleone]

On 12/5/25 8:13 AM, murray at murraycomber.com wrote:
> 1. I Uninstalled GNUCash. Version 5:13 was on it but you are suggesting I download 5:12. I completely scanned my computer with Malware Bites and it came up clean. It made some suggestions which I implemented.
> 
> 2. I will do this today and watch videos to make sure I download and install and set it up correctly

There are some decent videos out there on using GnuCash, but they may be 
a bit dated for older versions. However, the basic steps should be 
similar enough you can figure it out.

Unlike other apps, GnuCash is one where you really need to use the 
Manual while learning to use it. There is also a Tutorial & Concepts 
Guide that is a bit more hands-on. I *highly* recommend you have one or 
both of those open while getting things set up.

> 3. Regarding the Terms...
> a. As you stated, that is what the plan was, each with a fresh download of GNUCash on each of our computers. I will make sure the versions are in sync

And you most definitely *can* provide the treasurer with the install 
file on the USB. She'll have to install GnuCash on her computer of 
course before she can use it.

> b. Yes, the Data File with the chart of accounts was saved in a 128 Gb Flash Drive with the intention of taking what I build on my computer and transferring it to hers. I just didn't know if there would be any complications with that. I will talk to her about how she backs her stuff up and make sure that is done.

'terms' seem to be an issue here. 'build' is a specific term in computer 
software which is a much more complicated process of installing an 
application on a computer. That's why several of us replied as we did. 
It is clear now, what you meant by 'build' was really 'setting up' your 
data file for the treasurer.

> 4. Once it is on her computer, she will be the only one using it. We will not be both using the churches file. The most that will happen will be at year end when reports are needed but that doesn't change the data, just creates the needed reports for the Annual Meeting.

She can run the reports herself, no need to pass the file back and 
forth, but you certainly can do so if that is what you prefer.

> I highly suspect that I will be dleting, editing and/or adding new accounts unless there is a chart of account that is preset for churches. I used the one given which had things like groceries and entertainment which the church doesn't need but will also be categorizing the data into headings and creating sub accounts, for example, PAYROLL, FACILITES, PROGRAMS, ONLINE SERVICES, etc each with sub categories. I don't believe GNUCash has one like that built in. If they do, please inform.

There are a few templates you can choose from when first starting a 
file, but there is not one specifically built-in for churches that I'm 
aware of, but I'm sure there are plenty of examples online. Of course, 
you still need to edit the chart to your needs anyway.

Don't forget 'headings' are just 'place-holder' accounts! (and should be 
marked as such)

> QUESTION: How will I know when 5:13 has had the issues removed so I can upgrade, or is that even necessary?
I have no idea if SourceForge will now inform you of when the 5.14 
version is available as I've never given them my e-mail address. 
(personally, I'd recommend to find out how to delete that 'account' with 
them as it is not necessary)

Every new version is announced here on the mailing list along with a 
list of changes and fixes. They come out every 3 months, and of course, 
are posted on the main website.

While most releases are generally usable without major issues, 
occasionally one will be a bit more troublesome. You'll see list topics 
here about those issues as people come across them and they are either 
resolved, or investigated further. I usually wait a few weeks to upgrade 
for that reason, and sometimes, I'll even skip a minor version if there 
are lots of problems. (as in the case of 5.13)

5.14 will be out before the end of the year. I'd recommend using 5.12 
for now, and maybe upgrade in mid to late January depending on what the 
list messages indicate. Note, you don't *have* to upgrade every 3 
months. Some folks will use a version for several years before doing so. 
The longer you go however, the more delicate the upgrade process can be, 
but we can always help you out here when you are ready.

Regards,
Adrien